TLC Test: Price, Purpose, Results, Procedure, & Normal Range

TLC stands for Total Leukocyte Count, which is a blood test that measures the number of white blood cells (leukocytes) present in the blood. White blood cells play an important role in the body’s immune system, helping to fight infections and diseases. The TLC blood test is a routine test that is often included in a complete blood count (CBC), which is a panel of tests used to evaluate a person’s overall health.

Abnormalities in TLC levels can indicate various medical conditions, such as infections, inflammation, autoimmune disorders, and certain types of cancers. Therefore, the TLC blood test is often used to diagnose and monitor these conditions, as well as to assess the effectiveness of treatment. The price range of TLC Blood test is usually between Rs 60 to Rs 252.

Your doctor may recommend a TLC Test because of the following reasons-

1. Fever
2. Fatigue
3. Pain
4. Difficulty breathing
5. Wheezing
6. Night sweats
7. Unexpected weight loss
8. Rash

TLC Blood Test Details in Brief

Also Known As	White blood cell count (WBC), Leukocyte count, Total white blood cell count (TWBC), White count, Leukogram.
Purpose	To measure the number of white blood cells in a person’s blood.
Preparation	No special preparation required.
Fasting	No
Reporting Time	8 to 24 Hrs.
Cost	Rs. 60 to Rs. 252

Price

TLC Test Price usually ranges from Rs 60 to Rs 252. The actual price depends on the diagnostic center and the city. Bookmerilab partners with more than 200 diagnostic centers across India. We provide a 10-50% discount on medical diagnostic tests.

Prices at Popular diagnostic centres

The table below lists the prices at some of the popular diagnostic centres.

Name of Lab	Test Price
Redcliffe Labs	Rs 77
Janta X-Ray	Rs 72
City X-Ray	Rs 75
Prognosis Laboratories	Rs 60
Bharat X-Ray	Rs 65
Mahajan Imaging	Rs 120
Dr Lal path labs	Rs 110
Aarthi Scans	Rs 75

Cost in different cities

The test cost depends upon the one recommended by your healthcare professional. The cost varies depending on the lab and the city.

City	Test Price
TLC Test Price in Delhi	Rs 60 to Rs 144
TLC Test Price in Mumbai	Rs 77 to Rs 180
TLC Test Price in Bangalore	Rs 77 to Rs 117
TLC Test Price in Hyderabad	Rs 77 to Rs 252
TLC Test Price in Gurgaon	Rs 77 to Rs 148
TLC Test Price in Chennai	Rs 75 to Rs 110
TLC Test Price in Kolkata	Rs 77 to Rs 117

Purpose

1. To check for infections: A TLC blood test can help to identify if you have an infection by counting the number of white blood cells in your body.
2. To monitor certain conditions: A TLC blood test may be ordered periodically to monitor the progression of medical conditions like leukemia, lymphoma, and autoimmune disorders and evaluate the effectiveness of treatment.
3. To assess overall health: A TLC blood test is a routine blood test that is often performed as part of a general health check-up. The results can help to identify any potential underlying health issues that may require further investigation.
4. To monitor the effects of medication: Certain medications can affect white blood cell counts.
5. To evaluate bone marrow function: White blood cells are produced in the bone marrow. A TLC blood test may be ordered to evaluate the function of the bone marrow in individuals who have undergone chemotherapy or radiation therapy, or for those with suspected bone marrow disorders.

Preparation

1. No fasting required
2. Inform your doctor of any medications
3. Wear comfortable clothing
4. Drink plenty of water before the test to make it easier to draw blood.
5. Inform your doctor of any allergies

Procedure

It is a fairly simple diagnostic blood test. Below are the steps to draw a blood sample from the vein in your arm or hand-

1. A technician (phlebotomist) may tie a tourniquet (elastic band) to your arm.
2. The phlebotomist will locate your blood vessel.
3. Then the site is cleaned with spirit.
4. A Needle is inserted into your vein to draw the blood.
5. The blood sample is then withdrawn into a syringe or a vial.
6. Cotton is placed on the puncture site with mild pressure till the bleeding stops.
7. A small band-aid is then placed, which may be removed after an hour.

The entire procedure takes only a few minutes.

Risk

It is a very simple and safe test. The risks involved are the same as that of any other blood test. These include-

• Infection at the puncture site if proper sterilization protocol is not followed and the needle is contaminated. This is, however, very rare. You may ensure that your phlebotomist takes out the needle in front of you from a sterile pack.
• Multiple pricks if the blood vessel is not easily found
• Excessive bleeding at the puncture site- Please inform your healthcare provider if you are taking any blood thinners or have any bleeding disorders.
• Light-headedness due to stress or heavy bleeding.

Minor pain and bruising that might occur will resolve on their own in a very short time.

Result

1. Normal range: The normal range of total leukocyte count varies depending on the laboratory and age group. Generally, a total leukocyte count between 4,000 to 11,000 cells/microliter is considered normal.
2. Increased count (leukocytosis): An increased total leukocyte count may indicate the presence of an infection, inflammation, or an allergic reaction. Other possible causes include leukemia or other blood disorders.
3. Decreased count (leukopenia): A decreased total leukocyte count may indicate a weakened immune system due to an underlying condition or the side effects of certain medications such as chemotherapy.

Range	Total Leukocyte Count	Units
Normal	4,000 – 11,000	cells/microliter or cells/cubic millimeter (mm3)
Increased(Leukocytosis)	<11000	cells/microliter or cells/cubic millimeter (mm3)
Decreased(Leukopenia)	>4000	cells/microliter or cells/cubic millimeter (mm3)

Limitations

1. False positive results: An increased white blood cell count on a TLC blood test does not always indicate an underlying health condition. Stress, exercise, and certain medications can cause a temporary increase in white blood cells, leading to false positive results.
2. False negative results: A normal white blood cell count on a TLC blood test does not always mean that an underlying health condition is absent. Some conditions, such as chronic infections, may not cause an increase in white blood cells, leading to false negative results.
3. Interference from certain medications: Certain medications, such as corticosteroids and chemotherapy drugs, can affect white blood cell counts, leading to inaccurate test results.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a TLC blood test is a routine blood test that is used to evaluate the number of white blood cells in the body. The test is often ordered to help diagnose and monitor conditions such as infections, autoimmune disorders, and certain types of cancer.

However, it is important to note that a TLC blood test alone cannot diagnose a specific disease or condition, and should be used in combination with other diagnostic tests and medical evaluations. If you have any concerns about your white blood cell count or overall health, consult with your healthcare provider.

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